The anticipation for the Nintendo Switch 2 has reached fever pitch, with its launch scheduled for June 5, 2025. As fans gear up for release day, many are wondering about pre-order status, availability, and which games will be available alongside Nintendo’s next-gen console. Here’s everything you need to know.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Challenges
Pre-orders opened on April 24, 2025, in the U.S., but sold out almost instantly. Retailers like Nintendo.com, Walmart, and GameStop saw their inventories vanish within hours. The U.K. saw a slightly better situation with multiple restocks, though many were offered as bundles at higher prices.
For those who missed pre-orders, there’s still hope. Major retailers have confirmed that additional stock will be available on launch day, both online and in-store.
Upcoming Retail Restocks & Launch Events
Retailers are ramping up efforts as June 5 approaches:
- GameStop and Best Buy will hold late-night launch events, opening doors at midnight.
- GameStop confirmed it will begin fulfilling pre-orders at midnight, and fans can expect limited units available for walk-ins.
- Best Buy warned of long lines in major cities, advising customers to arrive early.
“Expect to see long lines at popular Best Buy stores in US cities hours in advance of the midnight release,” said a company rep. “Some may not be able to get the new console.”
Nintendo Switch 2 Stock Arrivals
Retail outlets have already begun receiving shipments of the Switch 2. Images circulating on social media show Switch 2 consoles arriving at Target and other retailers.
Reports indicate that around 40 consoles are being delivered per store, split between the standard and Mario Kart bundles. While they are not yet available for purchase, the growing stock signals that supply is ramping up just in time.
What to Expect on Launch Day
Gamers can expect a robust lineup of titles launching alongside the Nintendo Switch 2. These games are designed to take full advantage of the new hardware:
- Mario Kart World – Launches June 5. A nostalgic yet refreshed experience for racing fans.
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2 Edition) – Enhanced visuals and smoother performance.
- Street Fighter 6 – Loaded with new content and a vast character roster.
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land: Star-Crossed World – A polished, visually refreshed version.
- Donkey Kong Bananza – Launching July 17, with innovative gameplay mechanics.
These titles are expected to rejuvenate the gaming experience and make June 5 a date to remember.
Anticipating Future Titles
Beyond launch day, several highly anticipated titles are expected later in 2025 for the Switch 2:
- Hogwarts Legacy – Promises an immersive magical narrative on Nintendo’s new platform.
- Split Fiction – Designed to take advantage of the Switch 2’s enhanced graphics capabilities.
- Pokémon Legends Z-A – Expected to evolve the franchise’s open-world formula.
These upcoming titles reflect Nintendo’s intent to deliver a long-term, diverse game library for Switch 2 owners.
Conclusion: The Future of Gaming with Nintendo Switch 2
As we enter the final stretch before launch, excitement is mounting. Pre-orders may be elusive, but with additional stock arriving, late-night events, and an impressive lineup of launch titles, Nintendo is poised to deliver a powerful next-gen experience.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, the Switch 2 marks the start of a thrilling new chapter in Nintendo gaming.
Happy gaming!
